Ever met someone super interesting and full of energy, but their attention seems to jump around like a pinball? Maybe they forget things sometimes or get excited about certain topics. If this sounds familiar, you might be crushing on someone with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain processes information and regulates attention. Studies suggest that around 30% of teens with ADHD experience social difficulties, which can sometimes make it tricky to decipher their feelings (https://www.additudemag.com/tag/social-skills/). People with ADHD can be incredibly fun, creative, and passionate, but their symptoms can sometimes make it challenging to navigate the world of crushes and relationships. So, how do you navigate this and tell if that special someone with ADHD likes you back? Buckle up, because we’re about to crack the code!
Keep an eye out for certain clues if you’re curious about whether a person with ADHD has taken a fancy to you. They might seem extra attentive when you’re chatting, be the ones to kick off conversations often or jump to reply to your messages right away. It’s key to remember, though, that everyone has their unique way of showing interest, and these indicators can differ widely from one individual to another.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some general signs:
It’s also important to consider that ADHD can manifest in different ways, so these signs may not always be present. If you’re interested in someone, the best way to find out if they like you back is to communicate with them directly.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer (because everyone’s unique!), here are some tell-tale signs that someone with ADHD might be crushing on you:
People with ADHD often struggle to focus, but when they’re genuinely interested in someone, they put in the extra effort to be present. They might make eye contact more often, ask follow-up questions, and seem genuinely invested in what you have to say. Pay attention to how their body language shifts when they’re around you. Do they lean in? Minimize distractions by putting their phone away. These subtle cues can speak volumes.
Keep in mind: While someone with ADHD might struggle to maintain eye contact for extended periods, it doesn’t mean they’re not interested. Look for other signs of engagement, like nodding or responding thoughtfully to your conversation.
People with ADHD can be quite impulsive, and if they like you, they might not be shy about showing it. They might text you first, ask you to hang out or go the extra mile to spend time with you. They’ll genuinely enjoy your company and actively seek it out.
Remember: Don’t confuse friendliness with romantic interest. Just because someone with ADHD is chatty with everyone doesn’t automatically mean they have a crush. Look for a shift in their behaviour specifically towards you.
One common misconception about ADHD is that people with it can’t remember anything. While it’s true that up to 50% of adults with ADHD report experiencing problems with memory ( https://chadd.org/attention-article/adhd-and-working-memory/) if they like you, they’ll likely remember things that matter to you. They might recall your favourite band, a movie you mentioned wanting to see, or a detail you shared about your life. It shows they’re actively listening and interested in getting to know you better.
Heads Up: Difficulty with focus can sometimes lead to forgetfulness, even for things they care about. Don’t take it personally if they forget a specific detail you mentioned.
People with ADHD express themselves in unique ways. Here are some less-common signs that someone with ADHD might be smitten:
People with ADHD are often incredibly passionate about their hobbies and interests. If they like you, they might want to share this passion with you. They might drag you to a museum exhibit they’re excited about, or spend hours explaining their favorite video game. It’s their way of connecting with you and showing you a part of their world.
People with ADHD can experience hyperfocus, a state of intense concentration on something they find particularly interesting. If they get hyper-focused on spending time with you, having deep conversations, or learning about your interests, it’s a good sign they enjoy your company.
People with ADHD often have an infectious zest for life. If they light up when they see you, their excitement bubbles over, or they come up with spontaneous plans to do something fun together, it could be a sign they genuinely enjoy being around you.
While the signs above are encouraging, it’s important to remember that ADHD can sometimes manifest in ways that might seem confusing. Here are some things to keep in mind:
In the whirlwind world of ADHD, reading signs of affection might feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. But remember, the heart of the matter is this: patience and understanding go a long way. If you spot distractibility, don’t mistake it for disinterest. Impulsiveness? It’s just their heart skipping a beat, maybe in your direction.
In essence, navigating these waters requires a bit of grace and a lot of heart. So, next time you’re puzzling over mixed signals, take a step back. Maybe, just maybe, you’re already catching someone’s eye. After all, love in the ADHD world isn’t about finding someone who sits still; it’s about finding someone whose heart races – possibly because of you.